JASNA Essay Contest

Nathaniel Tok
May 15
1 min read

Cost: Free

Description: An annual essay competition encouraging high school and college students worldwide to explore Jane Austen’s works through analytical writing. Entrants select a motif, object, or word from Austen’s novels and compare its use in two scenes, discussing purpose and effect. Winners receive scholarships, publication, and other awards.

Dates: 2026 topic and rules available November 2025; submissions begin February 2026.

Grade Levels: 9–12

Skill Level: Intermediate

Location Requirements: None

Link: https://jasna.org/programs/essay-contest/

Additional Info: First‑place winners receive a $1,000 scholarship, free registration and lodging for JASNA’s Annual General Meeting, one year of membership, publication of their essay, and Norton Critical Editions of Austen’s novels.